Tiz the Season of the mini league!!!!!

Airc west November 2013

The North West league is thriving away with plenty of entries in all classes and levels, The North West league run classes for all levels starting with cross poles, 60cm Primary, AP, Intermediate and Advanced Intermediate and Open.  The current leaders of the league are cross poles, Patrica Gormly and Pamela White.  The 60cms leaders are Emer Hannaway, Evilina Wysznska, Dennis Green, the primary class has joint leaders Aine McLean and Paul Curren. The AP leaders are Rosaleen McGinley, Daniel Walsh and Ryan McBride.   The Intermediate leaders are Clodagh Barry and Carla McGinnley, Nadine Gallagher is way ahead in the intermediate and above with Damian Gallagher and Claire Wylie tagging behind.  Good luck to all who jumped in the final on the 24^th November, hope you have a great time!

The West Clubs final was held on a very wet November 17^th day at Hanleys in Claremorris, luckily there was a heater in the spectator’s gallery so when you wasn’t jumping you could watch in warmth and therefore created a party atmosphere.  The Primary league was won by Monica Neilson, with Fiona Fenton in second and Frank Gilmore in third.  The advanced Primary Class was way ahead with 27 points John Miland, with Rose Burke in second and Emer Glyn in third, Anna Burke was way ahead in the points for the Intermediate jumping and Storming Norman Tierney in second place, and Colm Kelly in third.  Orla O’Brian won the Advanced intermediate class, just tipping Roddy Kelly by one point,and in third place Thomas Daniels.  Riona Finn and Helen Nolan won the open class. 

Not only was there jumping in the West Clubs league there was dressage too and the winners of the Primary class was Evelyn Coyne, with Kathleen Duggan in second and in third place was Sarah Slattery.  The AP dressage was won by Christine McWilliams, with Fiona Fenton and Finola Murphy in joint second place.  Fiona Monne steamed ahead for the Intermediate dressage, with Carmel Crowley in second and in third place Jayne Duston, the advanced intermediate class was won by Grainne Kelly, in second place Marjorie Hardiman and in joint third place Mark Field and Wendy Byrne. 

The overall attendance was good despite the economic times we are living in and everyone had a good time and came away with plenty of rosettes!

Benbulben’s annual Winter Show was held on Sunday last November 10th, with competitors travelling from all over the Western Region including dedicated Donegal Gaeltacht Riding Club members from Falcarragh, Co. Donegal & Castle Carraig Riding Club members from Ennis, Co. Clare and riders from the various clubs in Co. Mayo & Co. Galway.

The rain thankfully stayed away and we were blessed with a lovely dry, if somewhat cold day. First of the competitive classes was the Primary Show Jumping which was won by Benbulben RC member Dawn Porter riding My Handsome Chap.

Next up was the strongly contested Advanced Primary class which was won by Rose Burke on Darragh from Dalysgrove RC, in second place was Benbulben’s Mary Lang on Merlyns Monty, third was Melinda Morgan on Petal for Benbulben, fourth was another Benbulben rider Sandra Start on Jake, fifth was David Walsh with He’s a Dandy for Donegal Gaeltacht & in sixth was Benbulben Treasurer Mary McMahon on Bobby.

This was followed by the novelty Pairs Class for Primary & Advanced Primary riders this was won by the partnership of Melinda Morgan from Benbulben with Petal & Lawrence Smyth from Donegal Gaeltacht on Jennys Jigsaw, with Dalysgrove duo Rose Burke on Darragh & John Miland on Holly in second .

The Intermediate Show Jumping was another hotly contested class, with an exciting Jump Off which seen the lead change a number of times. Glyn Morgan, the fastest granny in the West claimed victory for Benbulben on Tell Which Trump, Colm Kelly of Corrib was second on Rose of Castlerea, Benbulbens popular Chairperson Finola Murphy was third, on Drumcong Miller, while Charlie Vial of Tír Conaill claimed both fifth & sixth places with Nacho and Ozzy.

In the Advanced Intermediate class only three riders made it into the Jump Off where Gwen McDermott took the top spot for Benbulben with Kyleen Jean Claude, Benbulben’s Diarmuid Lang was 2nd on Diago, while Patricia Warren from Donegal Gaeltacht was very unlucky to have the last pole down with He’s a Dandy to finish in 3rd place.

A mishap in the warm-up seen Deirdre McDonald withdraw from the Open class, so Vanessa McDonald had the class to herself on Vanessa’s Pride but she still produced a lovely double clear to take the class for Benbulben.

The final class of the day was the much-anticipated Table C Speed for Intermediate and above riders, this was the most exciting class of the day with competitors racing the clock to get home in the quickest time and with seconds being added to their time instead of faults. In the end Benbulben riders dominated the class taking all six places, but it was Gavin Keenan & Ardgaineen Waltzer who came out on top, Gavin was keen to make amends for an earlier mishap in the Intermediate Jump-Off and he proved impossible to beat with a time of 60.67 almost a full second ahead of Vanessa McDonald on Vanessa’s Pride who took second spot in 61.56, Anna Burke took both third and fourth spots on Rookery Sparkle in 63.28 and Rookery Apache in 64.11, fifth was Joanna Kearns and West Coast Dreamer in 64.91 while Breda Perrin and Erronagh Sky took sixth place in 65.91.

In the Dressage arena Castle Carraig RC’s Geraldine Donoghue won the Primary class on Lucky Cosmo.

The Advanced Primary class was won by Benbulben’s Therese Anderson with It’s Zoro, in second place was Finola Murphy on Smokey Joe for Benbulben, Anna Burke took third for Benbulben on Rookery Apache, while Finola Murphy also took fourth with her second horse Drumcong Miller, Miriam Mangan was fifth for Benbulben with Carrowkelly Courcel.

In the Intermediate class Anne Granahan & Rookery Shadow from Benbulben were very well deserved winners, Catherine Meenaghan on Fire of Quantum was second, Brenda Burke was third for Tír Conaill on Bonnie MisMatch, Sharon McGowan of Benbulben took fourth spot riding Finola Murphy’s Smokey Joe for the first time, Breda Perrin took fifth for Benbulben with Erronagh Sky and Sharon McGowan also scooped sixth prize, this time on board Louise O’Hara’s BE Charisma.

Patricia Warren of Donegal Gaeltacht rode a beautiful test with He’s a Dandy to win the Open Dressage.

A big thank you to everybody who supported the show & everybody who helped out on the day. Special thanks to our judges Lizzie Naughton (Dressage) & Noleen Kerins (Jumping) and their 2 assistants, Richard Kerins who built a lovely course, Francie Kerins & Colm Kerins who helped with altering the fences between classes, to everybody else who helped to make the day such a success. Thanks to David Cunniffe who took lots of photos of the day.

Well done to all the shows and competitors who have competed over the last month, some great jumping and dressage!!

Leagues so far!

Western Region A.I.R.C. October 2013

With the summer over and the Summer national competitions over the winter nights drawing in the autumn shows kicked off with the West clubs league where the smaller clubs from around the region got together to have a number of shows in Duffys Equestrian Centre, Claregalway, Rockmount Equestrian Centre, Claregalway and Hanleys Equestrian Centre in Claremorris.  The first two shows have had an excellent turn out with AP and Intermediate classes of over 20 in each.  And even an extra class for the ever keen AP/primary riders with a pairs competition added at the last minute.

Current leaders of the primary show jumping competition are Monica Neilson from Corrib with 15 points and South Roscommon’s Carol Gaffney with 12 points running up.  Leaders of the Advanced Primary show jumping competition joint leaders are Liam Stapleton and John Miland both on 12 points, Melinda Morgan, Karen Coffey, and Rose Burke each on 9 points.   Anna Burke is way ahead in the Intermediate show jumping class on 16 points, followed by Colm Kelly on 12 points, Norman Teirney and Monica Kenny on 9 points.  The Advanced Intermediate show jumping class is closely contended by Thomas Daniels with 13 points, Orla O Brian on 12 points, and Therese Dixon on 11 points.  Riona Finn is currently winning the Open and Advanced Open competition.

The dressage leagues, the primary dressage class is hotly contended by Evelyn Coyne with 15 points, followed by Sarah Slattery with 13 points, Kathleen Duggan with 12 points.  The Advanced Primary dressage league is currently being led by joint leaders Christine McWilliams and Fiona Fenton each with 14 points, with Finola Murphy with 12 points.  The intermediate dressage leaders are Fiona Moone with 12 points, Carmel Crowley and John Hawkshaw with 11 and Jayne Dutson with 10 points.  The advanced intermediate class is currently being led by Grainne Kelly with 15 points and Marjorie Hardiman with 8 points.  Mary Mitchell is currently leading the open/advanced open class.

The next show is on the 3 November 2013 in Rockmount Equestrian Centre.  The final is being held on 17 November in Hanleys, Claremorris.  Benbulben Riding Club are having a show on 10 November 2013.  Donegal clubs are also having a league starting on 3 November, with dates 17 and 24 November2013. Please note clubs should have their AGMs before the regional AGM on the 22 November in Sligo.  Welcome to a new club in Galway Cleggan Bay Riding Club! We look forward to meet you and your horses around the shows!

Remember folks to forward your regional photos and news to me at melindamorgan2000@hotmail.com

The Arden Equestrian Show jumping League Western Region A.I.R.C

^{The Arden Equestrian Show jumping League Western Region A.I.R.C}

On Sunday the 16th of June South Roscommon held the final of the Arden Equestrian Show jumping League at Carey’s Equestrian Centre.

This was the first year this league was run and it proved to be a great success. The 4 clubs involved in running the league namely Dalysgrove, Balinasloe, South Roscommon, and Bridge co-operated and helped one another out and it was a great example of what riding club is all about!

The league was run over 4 legs with participants having to take part in at least 2 shows to qualify for the final. The 4 clubs shared the cost of the prizes for the final, which meant that along with the very generous support and sponsorship of Danny Claffy of Arden Equestrian they were able to present very generous prizes at the final. The prizes included Galway Crystal for 1^st 2^nd and 3^rd an embroidered rug for 1^stplace and a perpetual cup for the winner of each class and rosettes for 1^st to 6^th.

Sunday while overcast it was ideal weather for horse riding. The first Class of the day was the primary class. This was a very close class and could be called the battle of the secretaries namely Christine Rohan secretary of Dalysgrove and Niamh Macken Secretary of Balinasloe. Christine won out on the day to win the league title in primary for 2013. Sevrine Ray Tynagh 3rd Marie Fox Balinasloe 4th and Fiona Fenton 5th

In Advanced primary it was all to play for with any number in the shake up for the title. Unfortunately Jackie Feely had to withdraw Timmy from the show due to sunburn after too much sunbathing without protection (that was Timmy not Jackie who got sunburned by the way).   Dermot Goode was going very well until as he admitted later he started to do some mental arithmetic on the way around and lost concentration. Dermot should know at this stage that men cannot multi task!

Caolinn de Baairead from Corrib won out on the day and was the clear winner in the end of this class Dermot Goode Dalysgrove came 2^nd(and the crowd went wild) Caroline Clancy Springmount 3^rdEmma Glynn South Roscommon 4^th John Miland and Dermot Goode both from Dalysgrove 5^th and Mary Mcentee Mosstown 6^th.

Weather was to have a big part to play in the intermediate class also.  Gavin Kennan from Benbulben seemed unbeatable coming in to the final but due to the unpredictable nature of our Summer and the fact that it was fine on Sunday Gavin was ensuring there would be no fodder crisis next year and went saving silage.  One man who was having a fodder crisis was Dalysgrove’s Kevin Clogher who had vowed not to eat until he was finished jumping but due to the fact he had ridden his 2 horses in dressage and show jumping and in the pairs competition we were beginning to worry he might collapse before he got that diet of champions the curry chip and a burger.  But collapse he didn’t but champion he certainly was winning the intermediate class on the day and the league as well as coming 2^nd and 5^th in the dressage and first along with Dalysgroves newest and youngest member Aisling Miland in the very entertaining pair’s competition.  Janna Duane Corrib 2^nd joint third were Sinead Fenton Bridge and Norman Tierney Springmount,

The advanced inter class produced top class jumping with Sarah Gaughan Corrib coming first and Tommy Ryan Bridge was the runner up in this class.

As this is the inaugural year for The Arden Equestrian Show jumping League and what a success with over 80 different riders from 16 different clubs competing, some even from outside the region such as Mullingar Annaharvey and Mosstown.

 A big thanks to everyone involved over the 4 legs in particular to Danny Claffey of Arden equestrian and hopefully the 4 clubs involved will get together again and build on the success of this year and come back with an even stronger and better League next year!!!

Inishowen 16 June 2013 Results

AIRC WEST ROUND UP

Inishowen 16 June 2013 Results

New Club Inishowen held there first show on June 16 2013.  The sun shone and many from around Donegal made the trip to Geraldine Graham’s Lenamore.  The Primary and Advanced Primary dressage class was won by Inishowen’s own Nicola Coxford, with Vera Keatings from Letterkenny in second, Ruth McCrossen from Donegal Gaeltacht in third, Bronach McClean in forth, Orla Moore in fifth, Rosin McGee in sixth.  The Intermediate and advanced intermediate dressage was won Letterkenny’s Nadine Gallagher, in second Rachel McCrossen from Donegal Gaeltacht, in third place Inishowens Lauren Mclaughlin, in fourth Letterkennys Damian Gallagher, Mona Vial from Tir Connel in fifth and Letterkennys Cormack McCormak in sixth place. Patrica Warren won the Open Dressage.

The show jumping classes began with a clear round with cross poles and a 60 cm class to help bring members on. The Primary class was won by Paul Curren from Donegal Gaeltacht, Hannah McClinchy in second place, Aileen Togher in third place, Eamond McGee in forth place.  Daniel Walsh won the AP jumping Lawence Smyth in second place and Rosin McGee in third place.  The Intermediate show jumping was won by Charlie Vial from Tir connel, Lauren Mclaughlin in second place, Maeve Hegarty in third, Leo Porter in forth,  Paddy Gallagher in fith place and Bronach McClean in sixth place.  The Advanced intermediate and above show jumping was won by Letterkennys Damien Gallagher, in second place Inishowns Catherine Morrow, in third place Laura Schneider, in fourth place Tir Connels Cyndi Graham. 

Well done all riders and organisers great to see you up and about!

Western Region RDS Qualifier

Anna Burke - Rookery Blue, Edwina Ruane - Tullavilla Too, Vanessa Mc Donald - Vanessas Pride and Kean O Hara - Ted of Annaghmore in the Monica Flanagan photographer curtusy of monicaflanagan.com

Benbulben RC hosted the Western Regional Qualifier for The Horseware Ireland Association of Irish Riding Clubs Team Show Jumping Championship in Tubberbride Stables, Collooney on Sunday May 26th.

It was a hotly contested event with 24 teams representing 13 clubs in the region taking part. Richard Kerins blt a lovely inviting yet challenging course which seen 7 teams finish the first round on a zero score. 

The order of jumping was changed for the second round, with the teams having the most faults in round 1 jumping first in round 2 to ensure a nail biting finish. The 2nd round resulted in all teams finishing with faults, but Donegal Gaeltacht Team 2, Benbulben Team 2 & West Coast all finished on a total of just 4 faults resulting in a Jump-off to see who would clinch the coveted spot at the RDS in August!

First to go in the jump-off was Patricia Warren on He’s a Dandy for Donegal Gaeltacht who flew around the shortened track for a lovely clear round which put the pressure on the 2 remaining riders. Next in to take up the challenge was Benbulben's Vanessa McDonald on Vanessas Pride and a beautiful round from her seen her take the lead. The 3rd rider in was West Coast RC's Charles Hanley who had a cracking round but unfortunately 2 poles on the floor seen his team finish 3rd, with Benbulben Team 2 taking the winners spot and Donegal Gaeltacht Team 2 in 2nd earning them a spot in the Wildcard Qualifier at the Riding Club Festival in Stradbally on June 9th 

The following are the results of yesterdays team show jumping qualifier:

Winners: Benbulben 2

Vanessa Mc Donald - Vanessas Pride

Kean O Hara - Ted of Annaghmore

Edwina Ruane - Tullavilla Too

Anna Burke - Rookery Blue

Second: Donegal Gaeltacht 2

Trish Warren - He's a Dandy

Laura Schneider - Chloe Lass

Packie Ferry - Clonmany Girl

Carmel Ferry - Pepe Lad

Third: West Coast

Charles Hanley - Grallagh Boy

Margaret Kelly - Andsbro

Susan Mallon - Code Red D'arcy

Derek Ryan - Diamonds Way

Fourth: Donegal Gaeltacht 1 

Trish Warren - Colourado Kid

John McDaid - Ray Lady

Ruth McCrossan - Sioux Indian

Rosaleen Harkin - Santa Cruz Lady

Fifth: Benbulben 6

John McDermott - Kyleen Ricardo

Vanessa McDonald - Nisqually de May

Rebekah Tansey  - Brighten up your day

Elaine Wilson - Logic Point

Sixth: Benbulben 1

Deirdre McDonald - Nisqually de May

Fiona Tansey - Cloon Silver Cloud

Joanna Kearns - West Coast Dreamer

Anna Burke - Rookery Sparkle

The top three teams ended on four faults, jump off went as follows:

Patricia Warren - clear 37.97

Vanessa McDonald - clear 37.25

Charles Hanley - 8 faults 38.12

Dressage championships qualifier hosted by Dalysgrove

A great day was had at the regional Dressage championships qualifier hosted by Dalysgrove RC at Creagh equestrian centre on the 19th May. The sun came out for the day too! With over 50 individual dressage entries and 9 teams competing for a place at the Connolly's Red Mills Dressage Championships on the 18th August in Mullingar Equestrian centre. There was a very high standard of dressage on the day with very high scores awarded to all competing.  3 teams qualified to represent the region including teams Dalysgrove, Donegal Gaeltacht and Ballinasloe clubs.

Individuals also qualified for the Championship from Advanced primary class Donna Murray took first and second place with Dramlagh Troy and Temple Kiko for Dalysgrove, Followed by Jackie McGovern with Levi from club Anvil. The fourth qualified rider came all the way from Donegal Gaeltacht, Rudy Schneider with He's A Dandy.

Intermediate qualifiers Niamh Macken on Captain Smirnoff for Ballinasloe, Shauna Murray on Nicnac from Springmount, followed by Maria Griffin from Tonabrockey and fourth qualifier Rachel McCrossen from Donegal Gaeltacht with Batteries not included.

Advanced Intermediate qualifiers included Tracy Murphy on Nino Manoso for Dalysgrove, Agata Leonard with Eurocent Caletto from slieve bloom and finally Georgie Spain on  Molougha Bird for Dalysgrove.

Primary, Open and Advanced open riders did not need to qualify for individual competition. The top riders in Primary were Christine Rohan on Sweet Callows Gale for Dalysgrove, Followed by Maria Fox for Ballinasloe and Assumpta Shannon for South Roscommmon.

Open competitors were Trish warren, Danielle Touhy, Laura Schneider with Tracy Murphy the only Advanced open competitor on the day.

Outside in the sunshine continued the show jumping. It was the third leg of the Arden equestrian SJ league. With a large turnout for the competition rivalry ran high amongst competitors. The Primary class was won by Niamh Macken for Ballinasloe RC with Christine Rohan for dalysgrove in a close second with under two seconds between their times. Severine Ray from Tynagh came third with Maria Fox following in fourth place. fifth and sixth place were taken by Fiona Fenton and Assumpta Shannon from South Roscommon RC.

The Advanced primary class was won by Laurence Smyth from Donegal Gaeltacht. Springmount's Caroline Clancy was a very close second. Dalysgrove then dominated winning 3rd, 5th and 6th with Dermot Goode, Jacqueline Feeley and John Miland respectively. Caoillin De Bairead added to her league points coming 4th in the days AP class.

The intermediate class was packed with over 25 competitors all fighting to get to the jump off. From the exciting jump off Gavin Keenan from benbulben took first place. Kevin Clogher and the speedy Molougha Bird came in second. Norman Tierney and Orla O'Connell both from Springmount came third and fourth. Niall Coghill from bridge took 5 fifth place and Sarah Baggott from South Roscommon was presented with sixth place.

The open class was won by Trish Warren from Donegal Gaeltacht. Corrib dominated this class with Sarah Gaughan, Therese Dixon and Ronan Francis getting second, third and fourth. Raymond Daniel came fifth and Tommy Ryan from Bridge was awarded sixth place.

Let the competition continue with the Final of the Arden Equestrian League on the 16th May in Creagh Equestrian league hosted by South Roscommon RC. 

By Christine Rohan

Amemdment to the previous post - Letterkenny Derby and Dressage is being held on 30th June and the Arden Show jumping league is held on the 16 June!

Good luck everyone!

Dressage championships qualifier hosted by Dalysgrove rc

A great day was had at the regional Dressage championships qualifier hosted by Dalysgrove RC at Creagh equestrian centre on the 19th May. The sun came out for the day too! With over 50 individual dressage entries and 9 teams competing for a place at the Connolly's Red Mills Dressage Championships on the 18th August in Mullingar Equestrian centre. There was a very high standard of dressage on the day with very high scores awarded to all competing.  3 teams qualified to represent the region including teams Dalysgrove, Donegal Gaeltacht and Ballinasloe clubs.

Individuals also qualified for the Championship from Advanced primary class Donna Murray took first and second place with Dramlagh Troy and Temple Kiko for Dalysgrove, Followed by Jackie McGovern with Levi from club Anvil. The fourth qualified rider came all the way from Donegal Gaeltacht, Rudy Schneider with He's A Dandy.

Intermediate qualifiers Niamh Macken on Captain Smirnoff for Ballinasloe, Shauna Murray on Nicnac from Springmount, followed by Maria Griffin from Tonabrockey and fourth qualifier Rachel McCrossen from Donegal Gaeltacht with Batteries not included.

Advanced Intermediate qualifiers included Tracy Murphy on Nino Manoso for Dalysgrove, Agata Leonard with Eurocent Caletto from slieve bloom and finally Georgie Spain on  Molougha Bird for Dalysgrove.

Primary, Open and Advanced open riders did not need to qualify for individual competition. The top riders in Primary were Christine Rohan on Sweet Callows Gale for Dalysgrove, Followed by Maria Fox for Ballinasloe and Assumpta Shannon for South Roscommmon.

Open competitors were Trish warren, Danielle Touhy, Laura Schneider with Tracy Murphy the only Advanced open competitor on the day.

Outside in the sunshine continued the show jumping. It was the third leg of the Arden equestrian SJ league. With a large turnout for the competition rivalry ran high amongst competitors. The Primary class was won by Niamh Macken for Ballinasloe RC with Christine Rohan for dalysgrove in a close second with under two seconds between their times. Severine Ray from Tynagh came third with Maria Fox following in fourth place. fifth and sixth place were taken by Fiona Fenton and Assumpta Shannon from South Roscommon RC.

The Advanced primary class was won by Laurence Smyth from Donegal Gaeltacht. Springmount's Caroline Clancy was a very close second. Dalysgrove then dominated winning 3rd, 5th and 6th with Dermot Goode, Jacqueline Feeley and John Miland respectively. Caoillin De Bairead added to her league points coming 4th in the days AP class.

The intermediate class was packed with over 25 competitors all fighting to get to the jump off. From the exciting jump off Gavin Keenan from benbulben took first place. Kevin Clogher and the speedy Molougha Bird came in second. Norman Tierney and Orla O'Connell both from Springmount came third and fourth. Niall Coghill from bridge took 5 fifth place and Sarah Baggott from South Roscommon was presented with sixth place.

The open class was won by Trish Warren from Donegal Gaeltacht. Corrib dominated this class with Sarah Gaughan, Therese Dixon and Ronan Francis getting second, third and fourth. Raymond Daniel came fifth and Tommy Ryan from Bridge was awarded sixth place.

Let the competition continue with the Final of the Arden Equestrian League on the 16th May in Creagh Equestrian league hosted by South Roscommon RC. 

AIRC Western Round Up

Benbulben held the Western Regional Qualifier for the Masters Series

Benbulben held the Western Regional Qualifier for the Masters Series in Show Jumping as part of our show on May 5th. It was a great day of competition, with the Intermediate Masters Qualifier very hotly contested, with Rachel Burke on Rookery Blue just pipping her mother Anna Burke on Rookery Sparkle to the top spot.

Benbulben riders won all but one of the Show Jumping classes, with Donegal Gaeltacht's Lawrence Smyth on Jenny’s Jigsaw taking top spot in the Primary & Advanced Primary Derby to deny Benbulben a clean sweep.

Primary Show jumping was won by Miriam Mangan from Benbulben, while Mary McMahon took the honours in the Advanced Primary on Aylroe Boy for Benbulben, with Mary Lang 2nd, Lawrence Smyth 3rd, Melinda Morgan 4th, Sandra Stuart 5h & Marissa Hebron 6th.

The Primary & Advanced Primary Derby was won by Lawrence Smyth from Donegal Gaeltacht with Tara Brennan in 2nd, Melinda Morgan in 3rd, Sandra Stuart 4th, Marissa Hebron 5th & Mary McMahon 6th.

The Intermediate Masters Qualifier was won in fine style by Rachel Burke from Benbulben onboard Rookery Blue who recovered from a stumble to take the lead from Anna Burke who finished 2nd, Joanna Kearns was 3rd, Charlie Vial 4th, Edwina Ruane 5th & Therese Anderson 6th all securing a place at the Masters Series Final.

The Advanced Intermediate Qualifier was won by Myles McGowan on Journey Man for Benbulben, with Patricia Warren coming 2nd, Fiona Tansey 3rd, Kean O'Hara 4th, Marita

Shannon 5th & Leslie Fitzgerald 6th with Letterkenny's Cormac McCormack also securing himself qualification for the Final.

The Open & Advanced Open was won by Benbulben's Deirdre McDonald on Nisqually De May with her twin sister Vanessa in 2nd place on Vanessa’s Pride & Lizzie Naughton in 3rd.

These great performances by the Benbulben horses & riders mean that the club now has 10 horses & riders qualified for the final. A full list of qualified horse riders can be found on the AIRC website.

The final Show Jumping event of the day was the Intermediate & above Derby where Benbulben riders excelled to take all the placings in this hotly contested class which was won by talented combination of Rachel Burke & Rookery Blue, with Fiona Tansey 2nd, Anna Burke 3rd, Kean O'Hara 4th, Therese Anderson 5th & Joanna Kearns 6th.

Primary Dressage was won by Benbulben's Miriam Mangan with Marie McCaffrey in 2nd.

Advanced Primary was won by the newest member of the Benbulben team, Emma Lawrence on Benny Ace, Finola Murphy was 2nd, Jacquline McGuinness was 3rd, Mary Lang 4th, Melinda Morgan 5th & Therese Anderson 6th.

The Intermediate Dressage was won by Tara Brennan, with Erin Fergus 2nd, Melissa Monaghan 3rd, Catherine Meenaghan 4th, Charlie Vial 5th & Jane Dutson 6th.

Advanced Intermediate was won by Louise O'Hara from Benbulben with Myles McGowan 2nd & Donegal Gaeltacht's Patricia Warren took the honours in the Open Section.

By Edwina Ruane

Arden Equestrian Showjumping League. Ballinasloe RC Show, 28th April 2013

The rain held off, as per usual the showground staff had the grounds looking immaculate, and it was a Great Start to the Arden Equestrian Showjumping League, New league being run by Ballinasloe, Bridge, Dalysgrove and South Roscommon RC.

The Primary Showjumping got things underway, on the Padraig Geraghty built track, with Dalysgrove Secretary Christine Rohan and Sweet Callows Gale, who were the only double clear, to win the class. Second was the Ballinasloe Secretay Niamh Macken with 4 faults in the second round on Captain Smirnoff, with fellow club member Maria Fox on Earl of Clonberne in Third.

As always there was a big turn out for the Adv Primary Class, but it was Mosstowns Bernie Whyte, on Baily , who was closet to the optimum time, with Liam Stapleton and Lady Tessa from Tynagh RC coming Second, with Corribs Caolinn De Bairead and Cavalier Kim with in third place.

In the Primary / Adv Primary Pairs Class, saw another Placing for Liam Stapleton and Lady Tessa this time taking the Red Ribbon with fellow Tynagh club member Severine Ray on Zeva . Corrib RC took Second, with Caolinn De Bairead and Colm Kelly, in Third Place was Melinda Morgan from Benbulben and Maria Tierney from Springmount.

A large entry in the Intermediate, saw 11 through to the jump off, but it was Benbulben RC’s Rebekah Tansey on Brighten Up Your Day, who was the fastest, and took top honours from Corribs Janna Duane on Fair Lady in Second Place. Paula Cosgrave from Ballinasloe RC took third.

In the Adv Inter class, 3 made it into the jump off , with the spoils going to Annaharveys Billy Guinan and Caesar, Marita Shannon and Nautica from Springmount took Second, and another Annaharvey Member, Evelyn Browne on Anna Mama took third spot.

In the Open Class, Sylvia Baumberger took first Place with Courage Galore for Ballinasloe RC.

In the Inter and Above Pairs Class, it was Dalysgrove’s Kevin Clogher, and Benbulbens Gavin Keenan, who took first place, with the Benbulben pair of Fiona Tansey and Rebekah Tansey in 2 second place.

The Dressage arena was in full swing from 10.30am in the morning, The Primary Class was won by Ballinasloe RCs Maria Fox on Earl of Clonberne, with Christine Rohan and Sweet Callows Gale taking second for Dalysgrove.

A large Adv Primary Dressage Class, saw a lot of regions represented but it was Anne-Marie Hannon with Chris taking first place, from Mullingar RC, in 3rd place it was Slieve Blooms Lavinia Reid Kenny on Raindrop Queen, and Melinda Morgan from Benbulben came third with Petal.

Ballinasloe Club Secretary Niamh Macken, and Captain Smirnoff took top spot in the Intermediate Dressage, with Joe Carroll and Annaharvey Fantastica taking second, and third going to Ballinasloe’s Richard Clarke on High Commissioner.

In the Adv Inter Class, Springmounts Grainne Kelly and Gilly from the Block who came first, with Slieve Blooms Agata Leonard on Eurocent Caletto in second, and third place went to Orla Carroll and Bridgehousestud Riverking.

Ballinasloe RC would like to thank all to travelled to our show, and a welcome to those to came from outside the region, making it a great day out!

Ballinasloe RC would also like to Thank, our Sponsors, Arden Equestrian for the Showjumping League, Gateway Insurance Athlone, Dolans Centra Garage, Mighty Cabs, Horsey Horsey, The Friendly Fryer, Gullanes Hotel, Leonie Sutton Equine Artist & our Club members, without whom we couldn’t have put on such a good show.

By Niamh Macken

Final reminders to all

Good luck to all members competing for a place in the RDS teams in Kerins on Sunday 26th May 2013. Good luck to all the western region riders taking the trip to Stradbally for the riding club festival, have fun and bring back the rosettes! Also on the 2 June is the Beach show in Falcarragh, and on the 30 June is the Arden league final held by South Roscommon!

Good luck everyone

Melinda Morgan

AIRC West Round Up

AIRC West Round Up 

Thrilling finale to North West League 2013

By Libby Carlton

Initial reports of Sunday’s North West League final paint a picture of heart stopping entertainment and a great spread of success across all the clubs. With double points up for grabs on the day, nerves were stretched to their limits and the tension was high.
Judge and course builder Tony Ennis set a technically challenging course which sorted out the men from the boys at every level. Reports of the first half of the day are not yet in but the description of the competition at intermediate level and above is hair raising. No fewer than eight riders overcame Tony’s challenge to make it into the Intermediate jump-off. Tirconaill pulled off a huge victory with Charlie Vial riding a cracking round to finish in top spot. Best of Letterkenny’s finishers were the ever-consistent Anne Chambers in fourth and Leo in sixth.
Last year the combined Advanced Intermediate & Open class was sparsely contended and the finishing order on any given day was almost predictable. This year, with some talented riders from Inishowen and Rosann pushing up the numbers, the class has become truly competitive and exciting. Sunday’s final was nothing short of breathtaking. Five riders made it through to the final. Patricia Warren had to have been the unluckiest rider of the day when her immaculate round was deemed imperfect after a technical error with her approach to the start line. Damien, league leader coming into the show, drew the
unenviable short straw and started first. His partnership with Armstrong has given us some of our finest club moments over the years and the pair lived up to their reputation by going clear in 32.59, practically three seconds faster than Charlie’s winning ride in the Intermediate class over the same course at 90cm. The time looked unbeatable as rider after rider failed to match it. Claire Wylie was the fifth and final rider to take up the challenge and the best was saved until last. She rode a textbook round in an incredible 32.1 seconds to deny Damien the red rosette, but the league title was undeniably his.
There was no time for relaxing as Tony ploughed straight into the Intermediate & above Accumulator. In another cracking competition it was our own Keary Smith who topped the leader board on Arthur with a smashing clear round in a sharp time. His closest rival was his partner Anne who looked sure to take the spoils with a faster round but Molly left one pole on the ground to ensure that Keary claimed bragging rights for the journey home.
What a great league! Congratulations to all competitors and particularly to the league winners whose consistent performances over all five legs illustrate the beauty of this annual competition. The spoils were fairly spread across the clubs with Inishowen taking the Crosspoles, the Gaeltachts claiming the Welcome Stakes [Eamonn McGee], Primary [Liz Potter] and Advanced Primary [Lawrence Smyth], and Letterkenny landing the Intermediate [Leo Porter] and combined Advanced Intermediate & Open [Damien Gallagher].
Thanks to everybody who helped make the 2013 North West League such a great success. It’s a great tribute to the cooperative spirit of the five Donegal clubs and bodes well for
future collaborations. Our next joint event will be the North West Team Show Jumping and Dressage Challenges at Eglinton on Sunday 28 April. Roll on the big day!

West Clubs Derby League Final Report

by Cait Goaley

With the temperatures last Sunday and the extra chill factor of the cutting East wind,
any rider would have been forgiven for turning over in the cot and hitting the snooze button.
Instead, some rising as early as 6am, braved the cold and travelled to Duffy's Equestrian Centre in Claregalway where Mark Duffy presented yet another new challenging track of derby fences.
Almost all riders took the opportunity presenting their horses to the new fence layout in the schooling round and the competition proper started with 4 riders in the primary section. Carol Gaffney of South Roscommon took first place on the day and her win on the 2nd leg afforded her the points to win the primary title in the overall league.
Hot on her heels was Emma Sullivan (CastleCarraig) who claimed both 2nd place on the day and in the league. Serverine Ray (Tynagh) and Fiona Fenton (South Roscommon) made their debuts at the league to receive 3rd and 4th palings respectively.

The Advanced Primary section was hotly contended throughout the league with most riders in this section attending all three shows. The league title went to Christine Mc
Williams (Corrib). Aoife Hegarty (CastleCarraig) and Karen Coffey (Corrib) had to settle for joint 2nd with Cait Goaley and Maria Tierney (Springmount) taking 4th and 5th respectively and Colm Kelly (Corrib) taking 6th.

The Intermediate jump-off was an exciting one with the Burke mother and daughter team (Benbulben) taking 1st and 3rd on the day. This win cemented Rachel Burke’s chance of taking 1st place in the league overall with Norman Tierney (Springmount) taking 2nd after only just entering the world of jump-off’s. Kevin Clougher (Dalysgrove) collected the rosette for 3rd place while John McArdle (Tynagh) and Lucy Baker (CastleCarraig) shared 4th place. Mum Anna Burke (Benbulben) joined her daughter in the rankings to take 6th place.

The Advanced Intermediate section had a strong Corrib attendance throughout the league which helped them gather the points necessary to win the perpetual cup for the highest place cup. Thomas Daniels (Tynagh) and Therese Dixon (Corrib) settled for joint 1st in the league overall. Sharon Mc Gowan (Benbulben) crossed the league finish line in 3rd while 2 of the youngest riders in the grade, Sarah Gaughan (Corrib) and Niamh Hegarty (CastleCarraig) agreed on joint 4th place. Ronan Fancis’ win on the second leg afforded him the 6th placing in the overall league.

Lizzie Naughton (RoundTower) faced a new challenger to the Open league title when Riona Finn left dust behind her on the driveway into Duffy’s just in time to get her entry in and warm up. Her efforts however while knocking 2 seconds off the clock in comparison to Lizzie’s time in the jump-off incurred a 4 fault penalty at fence 8. Lizzie left with 1st place overall and Riona didn’t go home empty handed either.

All-in-all, a well attended league organized jointly by CastleCarraig, Corrib, Springmount, Tonabrockey. Maybe the way to go in the future for small clubs sharing the workload, the risk but in successful leagues – the benefit.

Airc West Region February 2013

Airc West Region February 2013

Regional Dinner Dance Calton Shearwater Hotel in Ballinasloe

The Regional dinner dance was great fun and held in the Calton Shearwater Hotel in Ballinasloe on the 26 January 2013.  The food was great and dancing went on until the early hours, and the annual prizes were handed out.  The primary dressage was won by Annette Donahue, in second place was Fiona Fenton, in third place John Kelehan.  The advanced primary dressage was won by Finola Murphy, in joint second place was Donna Murray and Fiona Monne.  The intermediate dressage was won by Clare Lenehan and in joint second place John McCardle and Niamh Macken.  The advanced intermediate class was won by G Kelly, in second place Jean O’Connor, in third place M Hardiman.  The open class was won by Danielle Toehy and in joint second place Patricia Warren and M Mitchell.

The Primary show jumping was won by S Ray, in second place J Feeley, and in joint third place Niamh Macken and Dawn Porter.   Janna Duane won the advanced primary show jumping, Lawence Smith was second and R Hankin was third.  Finola Murphy won the intermediate class, with Glyn Morgan and Edwina Ruane receiving joint second place.  Thomas Daniels won the advanced intermediate class, with T Dixon in second and D Gallagher in third.  Brendon Dolan won the open class, with D Glyn and S Mahon in second and third! 

Winner of the first and deserving winner of the Liam Naughton memorial trophy for leading performance rider of the western region was Finola Murphy, who dedicated the win to her horse Jessie, who sadly passed away after a terrible bout of colic.

Saoirse Saddlery Dalysgrove Dressage league

The sun shone for all three of the Saoirse Saddlery Dalysgrove Dressage league shows held in Creagh Equestrian Centre and it was great to see so many riding club members attending show so early on in the year and as many as 20 in each classes!

The league results as follows, the open class was won by Mary Mitchel riding Western May from Tonabrocky, in second place Sylvia Baumberger riding Courage Galore from Ballinasloe, in third place Danielle Touhy riding Pappin from Dalysgrove, in forth and fifth Damien Carey riding Dramalgh Troy and Omega from South Roscommon.  The advanced intermediate competition was won by Jean O’Connor riding Hi Jynx from Corrib, in second place Georgie Spain riding Mologha Bird from Dalysgrove, and in third place from Grainne Kelly riding Gilly from the block from Tonabrockey.  The intermediate competition was dominated by Dalysgrove with Tracy Murphy riding Nino Manoso taking the first prize, Kevin Clogher on Molagha Bird in second, Clare Lenehan on Outside Track from Tonabrockey in third, Pat Touhy riding Pappin was third, Danille Hourton on Barberdfort Lady from Ballinasloe, and in sixth place Kevin Clogher on sham from Dalysgrove.   In first and second place Donna Murray on Daisy and Kiko’s Temple from Dalysgrove, in third place Tina Sinclair Daly on Kilnamona Scobey from Ballinasloe, and in fourth place Jo Corkery riding Delphi Diamond also from Ballinasloe, in third place Tina Sinclare Daly riding the superb Buddy Boy and in sixth place Melinda Morgan riding the pretty petal all the way from Benbulben in Sligo.  The Primary competition was hotly contended and Fiona Fenton won riding Dandy from South Roscommon, John Kelehan was second riding Park Oisin from Corrib, in third place Kathleen Duggan riding Lizzie Loopez from Springmount, Geraldine Donohue was third riding Lucky Cosmo from Castle Carrig, in fourth place Dalysgrove’s own Christine Rohan riding Sweet Callows Gale, and in fifth place Catherine Glynn riding Miller!

The Dressage to music was well attended and great fun with Jean O’Connor winning the advanced intermediate and above class and Clare Lenehen winning the intermediate and bellow, with Melinda Morgan in second, John Kelehan in third and Caroline Rushe on Gallie in forth!

Well done to all competitors, it’s great to see so many people making the effort in these hard times.

Up and coming events

Galway Clubs Derby League are continuing on 24 February, 10 and 24 March in Duffys Equestrian in Claregalway.  The Northwest show jumping league continues on the 3 and 24 March.  There is a training day held on the 7 April, more to be announced. The National Hunter trials are being held in Gurteen on the 14 April.  Castle Carrig show is being held on 21 April 2013.

Good luck everyone!

 Airc West Region February 2013

Regional Dinner Dance Calton Shearwater Hotel in Ballinasloe

The Regional dinner dance was great fun and held in the Calton Shearwater Hotel in Ballinasloe on the 26 January 2013.  The food was great and dancing went on until the early hours, and the annual prizes were handed out.  The primary dressage was won by Annette Donahue, in second place was Fiona Fenton, in third place John Kelehan.  The advanced primary dressage was won by Finola Murphy, in joint second place was Donna Murray and Fiona Monne.  The intermediate dressage was won by Clare Lenehan and in joint second place John McCardle and Niamh Macken.  The advanced intermediate class was won by G Kelly, in second place Jean O’Connor, in third place M Hardiman.  The open class was won by Danielle Toehy and in joint second place Patricia Warren and M Mitchell.

The Primary show jumping was won by S Ray, in second place J Feeley, and in joint third place Niamh Macken and Dawn Porter.   Janna Duane won the advanced primary show jumping, Lawence Smith was second and R Hankin was third.  Finola Murphy won the intermediate class, with Glyn Morgan and Edwina Ruane receiving joint second place.  Thomas Daniels won the advanced intermediate class, with T Dixon in second and D Gallagher in third.  Brendon Dolan won the open class, with D Glyn and S Mahon in second and third! 

Winner of the first and deserving winner of the Liam Naughton memorial trophy for leading performance rider of the western region was Finola Murphy, who dedicated the win to her horse Jessie, who sadly passed away after a terrible bout of colic.

Saoirse Saddlery Dalysgrove Dressage league

The sun shone for all three of the Saoirse Saddlery Dalysgrove Dressage league shows held in Creagh Equestrian Centre and it was great to see so many riding club members attending show so early on in the year and as many as 20 in each classes!

The league results as follows, the open class was won by Mary Mitchel riding Western May from Tonabrocky, in second place Sylvia Baumberger riding Courage Galore from Ballinasloe, in third place Danielle Touhy riding Pappin from Dalysgrove, in forth and fifth Damien Carey riding Dramalgh Troy and Omega from South Roscommon.  The advanced intermediate competition was won by Jean O’Connor riding Hi Jynx from Corrib, in second place Georgie Spain riding Mologha Bird from Dalysgrove, and in third place from Grainne Kelly riding Gilly from the block from Tonabrockey.  The intermediate competition was dominated by Dalysgrove with Tracy Murphy riding Nino Manoso taking the first prize, Kevin Clogher on Molagha Bird in second, Clare Lenehan on Outside Track from Tonabrockey in third, Pat Touhy riding Pappin was third, Danille Hourton on Barberdfort Lady from Ballinasloe, and in sixth place Kevin Clogher on sham from Dalysgrove.   In first and second place Donna Murray on Daisy and Kiko’s Temple from Dalysgrove, in third place Tina Sinclair Daly on Kilnamona Scobey from Ballinasloe, and in fourth place Jo Corkery riding Delphi Diamond also from Ballinasloe, in third place Tina Sinclare Daly riding the superb Buddy Boy and in sixth place Melinda Morgan riding the pretty petal all the way from Benbulben in Sligo.  The Primary competition was hotly contended and Fiona Fenton won riding Dandy from South Roscommon, John Kelehan was second riding Park Oisin from Corrib, in third place Kathleen Duggan riding Lizzie Loopez from Springmount, Geraldine Donohue was third riding Lucky Cosmo from Castle Carrig, in fourth place Dalysgrove’s own Christine Rohan riding Sweet Callows Gale, and in fifth place Catherine Glynn riding Miller!

The Dressage to music was well attended and great fun with Jean O’Connor winning the advanced intermediate and above class and Clare Lenehen winning the intermediate and bellow, with Melinda Morgan in second, John Kelehan in third and Caroline Rushe on Gallie in forth!

Well done to all competitors, it’s great to see so many people making the effort in these hard times.

Up and coming events

Galway Clubs Derby League are continuing on 24 February, 10 and 24 March in Duffys Equestrian in Claregalway.  The Northwest show jumping league continues on the 3 and 24 March.  There is a training day held on the 7 April, more to be announced. The National Hunter trials are being held in Gurteen on the 14 April.  Castle Carrig show is being held on 21 April 2013.

Good luck everyone!

 

Happy new year to all

Happy new year to all
The next regional meeting is on the 9th of January in Sligo.
Final date for payment of dinner dance ticket is the 9th of January. All tickets will be issued on a prepaid basis, please ensure that you have paid your club secretary prior to this date. If we don't have adequate numbers by this date, we wont be able to go ahead with the event.